Filipino Bola-Bola Meatball Soup, sometimes simply referred to as Bola-Bola Soup, is a comforting and hearty dish commonly enjoyed in Filipino cuisine. Here are its key features:
- Meatballs (Bola-Bola): The name “bola-bola” refers to the meatballs in this soup. These meatballs are typically made from ground meat such as pork, chicken, or a combination thereof. The meat is mixed with various seasonings such as garlic, onions, salt, pepper, and sometimes breadcrumbs or flour as a binder.
- Broth: The meatballs are simmered in a flavorful broth, often made from chicken or pork broth. The broth is usually seasoned with garlic, onions, and sometimes ginger for added depth of flavor.
- Vegetables: Common vegetables added to Bola-Bola Meatball Soup include leafy greens like spinach or bok choy, and sometimes carrots or zucchini. These vegetables not only enhance the nutritional value of the soup but also contribute to its texture and flavor.
- Seasonings: Filipino soups often incorporate fish sauce (patis) or soy sauce to enhance the savory flavor of the broth. These seasonings add a salty and umami-rich taste that complements the meatballs and vegetables.
- Garnishes: Sliced green onions or cilantro are commonly used as garnishes to add freshness and color to the soup. Some variations may also include a squeeze of calamansi (Filipino lime) or a dash of pepper flakes for added zest or spice.
- Serving: Bola-Bola Meatball Soup is typically served hot as a main dish or part of a meal, often accompanied by steamed rice or eaten on its own as a hearty soup.
This soup is beloved for its simplicity, comforting qualities, and the ability to customize with different meats and vegetables based on personal preference and availability. It’s a staple in Filipino households and is enjoyed throughout the year, especially during colder months or rainy seasons when a warm bowl of soup is particularly comforting.
Here’s a Keto-friendly Filipino Bola-Bola Meatball Soup recipe for you:
Filipino Bola-Bola Meatball Soup Recipe (Keto, Low-Carb)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken or pork (preferably a mix of both)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for flavor)
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 medium zucchini, spiralized or cut into noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken or pork with almond flour, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Simmer Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add Vegetables and Meatballs:
- Add the spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) and cooked meatballs to the pot. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the zucchini noodles are tender and meatballs are heated through.
Finish and Season:
- Stir in baby spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Ladle the Keto Filipino Bola-Bola Meatball Soup into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Nutritional Information per Serving (estimated):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 5g
Notes:
- Almond flour is used as a low-carb binder for the meatballs. It helps hold the meatballs together without adding unnecessary carbs.
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a great Keto-friendly substitute for traditional noodles, adding texture and absorbing flavors from the broth.
- Adjust the seasoning and vegetables according to your preference. You can also add other Keto-friendly vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers if desired.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Enjoy your Keto-friendly Filipino Bola-Bola Meatball Soup, packed with flavor and perfect for a comforting meal!
